Wits SRC President Cebolenkosi Khumalo has raised R12 million to help students on the edge of financial exclusion.
Johannesburg, South Africa (07 February 2022) – Wits University Student Representative Council (SRC) President, Cebolenkosi Khumalo, has raised R12 million for students to clear a portion of their debt that will help them register for the 2022 Academic Year.
One of the biggest challenges facing students in tertiary education is their inability to pay their fees. The Wits SRC have tried various methods to highlight this issue and pressurize the relevant role players to take note, including through protest action. However, following the tragic death in March 2021 of Mthokozisi Ntumba, who was killed in a crossfire between students and police, the Wits SRC are looking at peaceful ways to raise the funds.
To this end, on the 2nd of February 2022, Khumalo walked 66 km from the Wits Great Hall to the Union Buildings with the aim of raising awareness for this cause. The idea was to raise R100 000 per kilometre to which R6 million was raised and the University matched rand-for-rand.
Donors thus far include The United Arab Emirates and Investec. The SRC is hoping to raise more money to ensure that all students who have been excluded for financial reasons are able to continue their studies.
He urges members of society, private sector individuals, organizations and the South African government to donate to the “Paving The Next 100 campaign”.
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